A Note from Francesca
As the inaugural season of Upwind by MerConcept concludes, I finally find some time back in the beautiful mountains of Park City, UT, USA to reflect on the remarkable year we’ve had. Having recently undergone knee surgery, I am now focusing on recovering, cherishing moments with my family, and gearing up for the thrilling challenges that await.
Last December feels like a distant memory when we first gathered to exchange ideas, aspirations, and visions for this extraordinary project. From the outset, 11th Hour Racing and MerConcept infused the initiative with unwavering energy and support, fostering a shared realization in that room: our sport was ready for this kind of transformation.
Closing the Gap in Diversity
Offshore Racing is one of a few sports (equestrian being another) where women and men can compete on equal grounds and are not separated by gender—which should (or could?) mean equal representation of men and women on all teams and starting lines, yet that’s not the reality. In the world of offshore multihulls, women are still a rarity, and true equity for competing at the sport’s highest level remains elusive. MerConcept’s legacy in offshore racing, spearheaded by François Gabart and a knowledgeable team, has been remarkable, and it’s an incredibly positive and impactful move to see such an experienced organization striving to close the diversity gap.
Leading this project was a significant step for me, especially given my limited experience with multihulls. I am sincerely thankful to 11th Hour Racing and MerConcept for trusting me with this position and allowing me to grow alongside the team. Together, we faced challenges and learned from one another daily. I have a passion for racing and offshore competitions, and above all, I thrive on new challenges—especially alongside individuals who motivate me daily. This season, I discovered all of that in this newly formed team.
It’s All in a Name
We spent considerable time brainstorming what to name this new organization and ultimately settled on Upwind. I must admit, I had initial reservations; “upwind” isn’t typically a sailor’s favorite point of sail. However, in hindsight, we couldn’t have made a better choice. Tackling upwind requires determination, perseverance, and skill. You must know when to act, sense every wind shift, adjust with precision, and seize even the smallest advantages—benefits that, over time, can change the entire outcome. This embodies Upwind by MerConcept, supported by 11th Hour Racing: creating equitable opportunities in a fiercely competitive arena, striving for change one small gain at a time.
Building the Team
The next crucial step was assembling the sailing team. In collaboration with 11th Hour Racing and MerConcept, we implemented an open application process aimed at making the submission procedure transparent and less daunting. We received over 120 applications from 27 countries—all with unique backgrounds and ambitions. Each application highlighted the critical need for these opportunities. Our vetting process was rigorous for both applicants and the selection panel: reviewing resumes, conducting interviews, and exchanging calls and emails, culminating in a gathering in Concarneau where 12 sailors underwent four days of evaluations.
Every participant showcased raw talent, enthusiasm, and determination, making the decision on who would advance one of the toughest choices I had to make. Ultimately, our team was finalized: Anne-Claire Le Berre (FRA), Ariane van de Loosdrecht (NED), Elodie Mettraux (FRA), Lisa Farthofer (AUT), Michaela Robinson (RSA), Sara Stone (USA), Tiphaine Ragueneau (FRA), and myself (representing Italy and the USA!).
Except for Elodie, whom I had previously raced alongside during The Ocean Race (2017-2018), these were faces I hadn’t met before. The realm of multihull racing can be insular, with familiar faces returning year after year, leaving little room for new talent. We aimed to break this cycle and create opportunities for new voices. This team—these women—were proof of what can be achieved when the door is opened.
With our first race in Saint-Malo approaching rapidly, it was a race against the clock to get everything in place. Our technical team—Louis, Sterenn, Fin, Seb, Manon, Emile, Lola, and the entire communications crew—Mylène, Gregoire, Marie-Astrid, Guillaume, Coline, and David—formed the backbone of this project. Eager and ambitious, they tackled each challenge with determination to excel. Upwind was not only about the sailors; it encompassed the entire support network, creating new opportunities for talent across all aspects.
Success Is Not Just About Results
The racing season was a whirlwind: inshore grand prix events in Saint-Malo, La Baule, and Sainte-Maxime; the transatlantic Route de Terranova; and the Med Max, where Elodie and Anne-Claire sailed double-handed. Conditions were demanding and varied, with each race presenting new challenges. We experienced our fair share of frustrations, hurdles, and exhilarating moments.
Every day spent on the water was a lesson in growth and resilience, propelling us to perform better next time. Our most challenging event—the Transat from Newfoundland back to France—tested our limits. Elodie and Anne-Claire competed fiercely in the Med Max, at times ranking as the fastest boat in the fleet, demonstrating the competitive spirit of our team. And at St. Maxime, we finally reached the podium—just enough to ignite our ambitions for 2025.
In sports, there is often immense pressure to deliver results, meet performance metrics, and win at any cost. However, true success can be rooted in something deeper. Without clinching a single title, Upwind by MerConcept emerged as one of the most impactful programs of 2024, carving a path for women from all corners of the globe to compete at the pinnacle of multihull sailing. We showcased the power of equity in sports, affording outstanding athletes the chance to hone their skills without juggling other jobs. Perhaps, most importantly, we inspired a new generation. As we stepped off the dock after the transat, the greatest joy was witnessing young girls who had come to greet us, looking up to us as role models—seeing us tired yet happy after crossing the ocean at 30 knots. We provided them with representation, something they had not seen before—instilling hope for the future.
Here’s to 2025 and the exciting ventures ahead: I can’t wait to reunite with the team after this winter break and get back on the water with this extraordinary group!